UAE Labour Card scaled

UAE Labour Card: Types, Online Status Check, and Latest Rules

One of the most crucial document for employees and employers alike is the UAE Labour Card, officially known as the Work permit Card. It is as important for a professional moving to the UAE or a employer looing to hire.

In this updated comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything from what it is and who needs one, to the the application process, online checks and much more.

What is a UAE Labour Card and Why Do You Need It?

A UAE Labour Card is an official document issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) or by a free-zone authority for employees working in those zones. For non-UAE nationals, it’s your legal right to work—proof that you’re employed by a registered company and protected under UAE Labour Law. It includes your full name, employer, occupation, nationality, and the validity of your work permit.

For employers, facilitating the issuance and renewal of Labour Cards for their employees is a legal obligation. It ensures compliance with regulations and helps build a transparent and legitimate workforce. Failure to do so within 60 days of an employee’s arrival can lead to fines and compliance trouble.

Benefits at a glance:

  • Legal protection under UAE Labour Law.
  • Access to employment benefits like health cover and paid leave.
  • A record of your employment status for government systems.
  • A safeguard against disputes, as it proves your official role and employer.

Labour Card vs Work Permit – Clearing the Confusion

Here’s the thing: people often swap these terms without realising there’s a technical difference.

  • Work Permit – The initial MOHRE approval that allows an employer to hire you. Think of it as the “green light” to bring you onboard.
  • Labour Card – Issued after your work permit is approved and employment procedures are finalised. It’s the actual ID (physical or digital) that shows you’re legally working in the UAE.

If the work permit is the permission slip, the labour card is the official badge.

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Who’s Eligible for a UAE Labour Card?

Generally, all non-UAE national employees working in the mainland of the UAE are required to have a Labour Card. The eligibility criteria differ slightly for employees and employers:

Eligibility Criteria for Employees:

  • Must be a non-UAE national (for mainland cards).
  • Hold a valid passport and the correct visa.
  • Be sponsored by a licensed UAE mainland employer.
  • Meet job-specific qualifications set by MOHRE.
  • Pass a medical fitness test.

Eligibility Criteria for Employers:

  • Must be a legally registered entity with a valid trade licence.
  • Have a genuine need to hire foreign workers for specific roles.
  • Comply with labour quotas and Emiratisation policies.
  • Provide a valid, MOHRE-compliant employment contract.

Types of UAE Work Permits

Work Permit Type

Description

Work Permit for Foreign Workers (New Employment Visa)

Standard full-time hire from outside the UAE.

Transfer Work Permit

For employees changing employers within the mainland.

Temporary Work Permit

For short-term projects or defined periods.

One-Mission Work Permit

For completing a specific short-term task.

Mission Visa

Typically for business visitors on assignments.

Juvenile Work Permit

For workers aged 15–18, with certain restrictions.

Student Training Work Permit

For students gaining practical work experience.

National Apprentice Permit

Aimed at developing UAE national talent.

Freelance Work Permit

For self-employed professionals with multiple clients.

Work Permit for Citizens Sponsored by Relatives

For eligible family-sponsored individuals.

Part-Time Work Permit

For reduced hours with one or more employers.

Permit for Hiring Emirati or GCC Citizens

For the employment of UAE or GCC nationals.

Golden Visa Work Permit

For long-term residency holders who are employed.

Remote Work Permit (Virtual Work Residency Visa)

For overseas employees living in the UAE.

How to Get Your UAE Labour Card – Step by Step

Obtaining a Labour Card is typically initiated by their prospective employer. Here’s a general overview of the process:

Required Documents (for Candidates)

  • Passport copy (valid).
  • Visa copy (if already in UAE).
  • Passport-sized photographs.
  • Educational/professional certificates (attested if required).
  • Medical fitness certificate from an MOHRE-approved medical center.
  • Signed employment contract (Arabic & English).
  • Any other MOHRE-requested documents.

The Application Process

  • Job Offer & Acceptance – From a licensed mainland company.
  • Work Permit Application – Employer applies via MOHRE portal or Tasheel.
  • Visa Processing – If abroad, you complete visa formalities before entry.
  • Entry to UAE – Once visa approved.
  • Medical & Emirates ID – Health test and biometric data collection.
  • Labour Card Application – Employer submits documents to MOHRE.
  • Issuance – MOHRE issues a physical or digital labour card.

Labour Card Renewal, Modification and Lost Card

Labour Cards have a specific validity period, usually tied to your employment visa. It is the employer’s responsibility to initiate the renewal process before the expiry date to avoid penalties.

Labour Card Renewal Modification and Lost Card

How to Renew Your Labour Card:

  1. Renewal Application: The employer submits a renewal application through the MOHRE online portal or authorized service centers.
  2. Required Documents for Renewal: This typically includes a copy of the employee’s passport and visa, the existing Labour Card, and a renewed employment contract (if applicable). A medical fitness test may be required again depending on regulations and the employee’s age.
  3. Fee Payment: Renewal fees must be paid.
  4. Labour Card Update: Once approved, the Labour Card details are updated in the MOHRE system. Employees can usually view the updated information online.

Modifications:

If your job title, salary, or other details change, your employer must request a card update.

What to Do If You Lose Your Labour Card:

While digital access is now prevalent, if you misplace your physical Labour Card (if one was issued), you should immediately inform your employer. They will be able to apply for a replacement card through MOHRE, which may involve submitting a report and paying a fee.

Fees, Fines, and Validity

  • Fees – Typically AED 250–3,450 depending on company classification and employee skill level.
  • Validity – Tied to the employment visa, usually 1–2 years.
  • Fines – Delays in issuance or renewal can trigger penalties for employers (and occasionally employees).

How to Check, View, and Download Your Labour Card Online

MOHRE has made it increasingly convenient to access and manage Labour Card information digitally. Here are the primary methods:

Method 1: Using the MOHRE Website

  1. Visit the official MOHRE website
  2. Look for the “Services” or “Enquiries” section.
  3. You will typically find an option to inquire about “Work Permit Status” or “Labour Card Details.”
  4. You will likely need to enter your Labour Card number or Emirates ID number to access your information.

Method 2: Using the MOHRE App

  1. Download the official “MOHRE UAE” mobile application (iOS) (Android).
  2. Register for an account or log in if you already have one.
  3. Navigate to the services related to work permits or labour cards.
  4. You should be able to view your Labour Card details, including its status and expiry date, and potentially download a digital copy.

Method 3: Using the UAE PASS

The UAE PASS, a national digital identity and signature solution, can also be used to access various government services, including MOHRE services. If you have a UAE PASS account, you may be able to log in to the MOHRE app or website using your UAE PASS credentials to view your Labour Card information.

How to Download an Official Copy of Your Labour Card

Through the MOHRE app or website, once you’ve accessed your Labour Card details, there is usually an option to download a digital, official copy in PDF format. This can be useful for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

ou can find your Labour Card number on any previous physical cards issued to you or through the MOHRE online services by using your Emirates ID or passport details in some cases. Once you access your record, the Labour Card number will be displayed.

Generally, labour regulations and processes in UAE free zones operate independently of the mainland MOHRE. Employees in free zones will typically have work permits and identification issued by the respective free zone authority, not MOHRE.

Tasheel centers are authorized service providers that act as intermediaries between businesses/individuals and MOHRE. Many Labour Card application and renewal processes are facilitated through Tasheel centers.

Finding a job in Dubai and the wider UAE involves various strategies, including online job portals (like Bayt, GulfTalent, Naukri Gulf), networking, recruitment agencies, and company websites. Ensure that any job offer you receive comes from a licensed mainland company if you require a MOHRE-issued Labour Card.

Conclusion

The UAE Labour Card is a fundamental document for legal employment in the mainland. Staying informed about the eligibility criteria, application processes, and your rights and responsibilities is crucial for a smooth and compliant working experience. Remember to always rely on official sources like the MOHRE website and app for the most up-to-date information.

Pro Tip

When your job ends, you may be entitled to an end-of-service gratuity. To calculate yours, try our UAE gratuity calculator based on the latest MOHRE rules.

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